Quebec’s New Policy for Temporary Foreign Workers: Prioritizing Permanent Residence Applications

Commencing on May 13, 2026, Quebec will give priority to permanent residence applications from temporary foreign workers whose work permits have expired or are close to expiration. This initiative, part of the Programme de sélection des travailleurs qualifiés (PSTQ), is designed to ensure that established workers do not have to depart the province before their permanent residence applications are reviewed.

The government has implemented a two-stage priority mechanism. Initially, individuals with open work permits will be processed first, as a federal temporary policy caters exclusively to specific closed permit holders. Following the handling of open permit cases, Quebec will proceed to applicants with closed permits.

Furthermore, Quebec is advocating for Ottawa to expand the federal temporary policy to encompass open permit holders, their spouses, and dependents. It is emphasized that while prioritization can expedite processing, it does not guarantee approval of permanent residence before permits expire. Temporary workers are advised to seek permit renewals through their employers and IRCC whenever feasible.

This new policy aligns with Quebec’s overarching strategy to select candidates who are already making economic contributions to the province, bolster employer workforce stability, and address shortages in the labor market.